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Material Preparation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler I

Columbia Falls, MT ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Perform accurate kitting and material preparation based on production requirements. * Conduct cycle counts, investigate discrepancies, and support reconciliation activities. * Maintain and optimize ...

Material Handler I

Columbia Falls, MT ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Perform accurate kitting and material preparation based on production requirements. * Conduct cycle counts, investigate discrepancies, and support reconciliation activities. * Maintain and optimize ...

Material Handler I

Columbia Falls, MT ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Perform accurate kitting and material preparation based on production requirements. * Conduct cycle counts, investigate discrepancies, and support reconciliation activities. * Maintain and optimize ...

Material Handler III

Columbia Falls, MT ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Perform accurate kitting and material preparation based on production requirements. * Conduct cycle counts, investigate discrepancies, and support reconciliation activities. * Maintain and optimize ...

Material Handler III

Columbia Falls, MT ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Perform accurate kitting and material preparation based on production requirements. * Conduct cycle counts, investigate discrepancies, and support reconciliation activities. * Maintain and optimize ...

Material Handler II

Columbia Falls, MT ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Perform accurate kitting and material preparation based on production requirements. * Conduct cycle counts, investigate discrepancies, and support reconciliation activities. * Maintain and optimize ...

Material Handler

Quincy, IL ยท On-site

$21.25/hr

Preparation of sampling materials * Operate forklift for movement of materials required for production * Inspect, set up, and test equipment such as scales, load cells, and magnets * Routine ...

Material Handler

Butler, PA ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Supports the Print Department by completing material handling, file ripping, electronic transaction, and material preparation tasks according to production standards and schedules. JOB ...

Material Handler

Butler, PA ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Supports the Print Department by completing material handling, file ripping, electronic transaction, and material preparation tasks according to production standards and schedules. JOB ...

Showing results 41-60

Material Preparation information

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How much do material preparation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for material preparation in the United States is $20.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is material preparation?

Material preparation refers to the process of getting raw materials ready for use in manufacturing or production. This can involve tasks such as measuring, cutting, cleaning, sorting, or mixing materials according to specific requirements. Proper material preparation is crucial to ensure quality, efficiency, and safety in the subsequent stages of production. Workers in this role need to follow detailed instructions and may use various tools and equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a material preparation specialist?

To thrive as a Material Preparation Specialist, you need a solid understanding of inventory management, material handling procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and forklift operation certification is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate material staging, efficient workflow, and overall safety in manufacturing or warehouse environments.

What are some common challenges faced in a material preparation role and how are they typically addressed?

One of the most common challenges in Material Preparation is ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of prepared materials to the production line, which requires strong attention to detail and effective time management. Workers often need to coordinate closely with inventory and production teams to anticipate material needs and adjust for any changes in production schedules. Addressing these challenges involves clear communication, maintaining organized workspaces, and using inventory management systems to track materials. Many companies provide training and standardized procedures to help team members handle these responsibilities smoothly.

What is the difference between Material Preparation vs Material Handling?

AspectMaterial PreparationMaterial Handling
Primary FocusPreparing materials for production or use, including measuring, cutting, and organizingMoving, storing, and controlling materials within a facility
Skills & CertificationsBasic mechanical skills, attention to detail, safety trainingForklift operation, safety certifications, physical stamina
Work EnvironmentFactories, warehouses, production linesWarehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants
Common UsagePreparing raw materials or components for assemblyTransporting and storing materials during production

Material Preparation involves getting materials ready for manufacturing, focusing on tasks like measuring and organizing. Material Handling centers on moving and storing materials within a facility. Both roles are essential in supply chain and manufacturing operations but differ in their specific responsibilities and skills required.

More about Material Preparation jobs

What job categories do people searching Material Preparation jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Preparation jobs are:

Infographic showing various Material Preparation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,581 per year, or $21 per hour.

Material Handler I

Nomad GCS

Columbia Falls, MT โ€ข On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

This position requires that you must be a US Citizen for consideration and meet all Federal Contractor employee requirements.  Nomad GCS does not support the H1B Visa for this position.



Position:             Material Handler I

Division:             Operations
Department
:     Materials Management
Status
:                Full-Time

Nomad GCS is currently seeking a Level I Material Handler.  Please note the Level I Expectation in red below.


Overview: Nomad Global Communications Solutions is a leading provider of communication and response products serving a wide variety of customers. Our purpose is to be the solution when every minute matters.

The Material Handler is a multi-level role (Levels l - lll) responsible for executing and improving material flow, inventory accuracy, warehouse operations, and yard management in support of production readiness and on-time delivery.  This role ensures the accurate receipt, storage, movement, and issuance of materials while maintaining disciplined inventory practices, continuous improvement and safe, efficient yard and warehouse operations.

Yard operations work may reflect a higher level of responsibility, role classification, and compensation, as these assignments often require operation of heavy equipment and the ability to perform a broader range of duties that may otherwise be divided among multiple warehouse roles.


At all levels, the Material Handler partners cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Materials Management, Engineering, Quality, Finance, Project Management, and Manufacturing to ensure materials are available, correctly staged, and accurately transacted in support of business operations.


The position progresses from foundational material handling execution (Level l) to independent work ownership and problem-solving (Level ll), then to coordination, mentorship, and process leadership (Level lll).


Throughout all levels, the Material Handler is expected to:

  • Execute material handling activities safely and efficiently using forklifts and other equipment.
  • Ensure accurate inventory transactions aligned with physical movement of materials.
  • Maintain organized, efficient, and safe yard and warehouse environments.
  • Support inventory accuracy through cycle counting and disciplined material control.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on material flow and execution reliability.


LEVEL EXPECTATIONS:


Material Handler l:

Essential Functions / Responsibilities:

  • Receive, inspect, label, and store incoming materials ensuring alignment with packing slips and purchase orders.
  • Ensure all material movements (receipts, issues, transfers, returns, cycle counts) are accurately and timely recorded in ERP (IFS) and aligned with physical movement.
  • Pick, pull, and kit materials for production under supervision while maintaining accuracy in part numbers and quantities.
  • Deliver materials to production and staging areas in accordance with instructions.
  • Support cycle counts and physical inventory activities to maintain inventory accuracy.
  • Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety of yard and warehouse areas.
  • Operate pallet jacks, warehouse material picker, and assist with forklifts (if certified or in training).
  • Identify and escalate discrepancies, damaged materials, or inventory issues.
  • Follow all safety protocols and standard work instructions.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Basic Knowledge Desired:

  • Foundational understanding of warehouse and material handling processes.
  • Awareness of inventory accuracy importance and material traceability.
  • Ability to follow instructions and learn standard work processes.
  • Basic familiarity with warehouse tools and equipment.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 0–1 year of experience in warehouse, inventory, or material handling preferred.
  • Forklift certification preferred or willingness to obtain.

Progression between levels is based on demonstrated ability to consistently operate at the next level of responsibility, rather than tenure alone. Advancement is evaluated using observable behaviors, operational impact, and sustained performance.

  • Increased independence and ownership of material handling responsibilities
  • Consistent accuracy in inventory transactions and material movement
  • Ability to identify, investigate, and resolve material discrepancies
  • Effective use of equipment required for the role, including forklifts and yard equipment as applicable
  • Contribution to process improvement and operational efficiency

Material Handler ll

Essential Functions / Responsibilities:

  • Builds upon Material Handler I responsibilities and independently performs all foundational material handling functions.
  • Independently receive, store, pull, and stage materials using forklifts and material handling equipment.
  • Perform accurate kitting and material preparation based on production requirements.
  • Conduct cycle counts, investigate discrepancies, and support reconciliation activities.
  • Maintain and optimize bin locations and inventory organization.
  • Interface with production, planning, and purchasing teams to resolve material issues.
  • Identify, escalate, and assist in resolving material shortages, damages, and discrepancies.
  • Support documentation of scrap, excess, and obsolete inventory.
  • Maintain equipment and ensure proper use of forklifts and yard tools.
  • Provide informal guidance and support to Level I team members.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Basic Knowledge Desired:

  • Working knowledge of inventory control and material flow processes.
  • Understanding of how warehouse execution impacts production and delivery.
  • Familiarity with ERP transactions related to receipts, issues, and transfers.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 1–3 years of experience in material handling, warehouse operations, or logistics.
  • Forklift certification preferred; CDL preferred.

 Progression between levels is based on demonstrated ability to consistently operate at the next level of responsibility, rather than tenure alone. Advancement is evaluated using observable behaviors, operational impact, and sustained performance.

  • Demonstrates consistent independence in executing all material handling functions and is able to operate without direct supervision.
  • Certified and able to safely operate material handling equipment, including forklifts and applicable yard equipment, to support both warehouse and yard operations.
  • Demonstrates ownership of assigned areas by maintaining inventory accuracy, identifying discrepancies, and supporting resolution efforts.


Material Handler lll

Essential Functions / Responsibilities:

  • Builds upon Material Handler I and II responsibilities, performing and coordinating all material handling functions while leading execution and process improvement.
  • Able to operate yard equipment, including telehandlers, forklifts, and other material movement equipment, to support material handling activities across warehouse and yard operations.
  • Coordinate material handling activities across multiple jobs, areas, or production lines.
  • Lead kitting, staging, and material readiness efforts to ensure production continuity.
  • Perform inventory audits and lead root cause analysis for discrepancies and cycle count variances, ensuring corrective actions are implemented and sustained.
  • Maintain ERP inventory accuracy and ensure transaction discipline across operations.
  • Lead cycle count programs and support inventory optimization initiatives.
  • Identify process inefficiencies and implement improvements in material flow and organization.
  • Communicate material risks, shortages, and delays to leadership and cross-functional teams.
  • Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and standard work processes.
  • Train and mentor Level l and ll Material Handlers on procedures, safety, and best practices.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Basic Knowledge Desired:

  • Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, to support inventory tracking, analyze discrepancies, and assist with cycle count variance investigation and operational reporting.
  • Strong understanding of inventory control, warehouse operations, and production support.
  • Proficiency in ERP systems and inventory tracking processes.
  • Ability to analyze operational issues and implement corrective actions.
  • Strong communication and coordination skills across teams.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 3–5+ years of progressive experience in material handling or warehouse operations.
  • Forklift certification preferred; CDL preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor peers and lead operational activities.

Progression between levels is based on demonstrated ability to consistently operate at the next level of responsibility, rather than tenure alone. Advancement is evaluated using observable behaviors, operational impact, and sustained performance.

  • Demonstrates full ownership of material flow outcomes, including proactive identification and resolution of material risks.
  • Leads process improvements and uses operational data (e.g., cycle counts, discrepancies) to drive corrective actions.
  • Serves as a resource to others by training, mentoring, and supporting team members across levels.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Progression Criteria and Advancement Expectations

  • Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and operate equipment for extended periods.
  • Ability to work in outdoor yard environments and varying weather conditions. Manual dexterity to operate forklifts and material handling equipment.


WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

  • Combination of outdoor yard and indoor warehouse/manufacturing environments.
  • Exposure to varying temperatures and conditions depending on work area.
  • Moderate to high noise levels in production and yard areas.
  • Required use of PPE including safety glasses, steel-toe footwear, and other equipment as needed.

 Nomad GCS is an equal opportunity employer, (EOE,) and voluntarily follows affirmative action guidelines. As an equal opportunity employer, Nomad GCS does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable state and local laws.